Top Mexican Dining Options in Bradenton and Sarasota

Bradenton and Sarasota is home to some delicious Caribbean restaurants, but when you want some southwestern flavors, you're going to need to head to one of the area's Mexican restaurants. Whether your apartment is in Bradenton or Sarasota, you'll find a number of tantalizing options if you’re looking for something spicy and flavorful for lunch.

Mr. Tequila Mexican Restaurant
491 Cortez Road

Mr. Tequila Mexican Restaurant is a Bradenton staple for those who love fresh salsa, guacamole, and tacos. The decor is authentic, with brightly colored mosaics on the backs of the chairs and beautiful southwestern artwork gracing each wall. Mr. Tequila is known for its Mexican-style margaritas, which are the ideal complement to its spicy menu.

Mexicali Border Cafe
5502 Cortez Road

Located five minutes from Springs at Palma Sola, the Mexicali Border Cafe offers traditional Mexican favorites as well as several specialty dishes you'll want to try, such as Mexico City Tacos and El Paso Style Manchaca. Enjoy your meal with one of the cafe’s delicious margaritas and make sure to leave room for one of the café’s desserts, including sopapillas, churros, or the tasty fried ice cream. Gluten-free and vegetarian menus are available.

Acapulco Tropical Supermarket
3525 1st Street

Located near the Desoto Square Mall in Bradenton, the Acapulco Tropical Supermarket may not look fancy, but it provides some of the most authentic Mexican dishes in the area. Food is served counterside, where you can see and smell the fresh choices. Build your own taco and be sure to enjoy sodas and juices made fresh on the spot.

Mariscos Azteca Mexican Seafood Restaurant
1100 North Tuttle Ave., #8

This simple storefront location houses one of the tastiest surprises in Sarasota. Here you can fill up on tacos and tamales, as well as Mexican-inspired seafood. Be sure to try the Ostiones Ala Mexicana, oysters topped with fresh produce and the restaurant's signature homemade sauce, for a tasty treat.

Mi Pueblo El Restaurante Mexicano & Cantina
8405 Tuttle Avenue

Voted both the best Mexican restaurant and the best margarita, Mi Pueblo offers an exceptional dining experience. After all, nothing says Mexican dining quite like a mariachi band, and Mi Pueblo El Restaurante Mexicano offers this at its Sarasota location. From the moment you walk in the door and smell the scent of cilantro and onions and hear the sounds of the band winding among the tables, you will be tantalized with the possibilities this restaurant provides. All food is made fresh before being delivered to your table.

Where have you found the best tamales and most authentic dining atmosphere? Tell your neighbors in the comments below!